Re:Japan is holding back as the world rushes toward electric...
by SECProto on Sunday August 22, 2021 @12:35PM
(#28266888)
> Passenger trains, trucks and ships are a different story.
In some countries, sure. But most rail in Japan is already electrified - 70% of the system [1]. The remainder would be low ridership routes, many of which the rail companies want to close - but if they don't, perhaps partially battery operated trains would be feasible - charge at every stop and at intermediate locations as needed.
Additionally, trucking routes in Japan are much shorter and slower than North America, making BEV trucks more feasible.
Ships I agree with you, hydrogen is likely best way forward
In some countries, sure. But most rail in Japan is already electrified - 70% of the system [1]. The remainder would be low ridership routes, many of which the rail companies want to close - but if they don't, perhaps partially battery operated trains would be feasible - charge at every stop and at intermediate locations as needed.
Additionally, trucking routes in Japan are much shorter and slower than North America, making BEV trucks more feasible.
Ships I agree with you, hydrogen is likely best way forward
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rail_transport_in_Japan